Fire safety over Christmas

Published: 04 December 2025

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service is advising residents to remember fire safety over the Christmas period:

Celebrating at home:

• install a working smoke alarm on every level of the house and test them once a week
• keep looking when cooking and always remember to turn off kitchen appliances once finished
• never leave lit candles unattended
• never use hot water bottles in the same bed as an electric blanket and remember to turn off electric blankets before going to sleep
• keep chimneys clean and well-maintained when using an open fire

Decorating safely:

• some decorations are made from highly flammable materials, so never attach them to lights or heaters
• check electric lights have the British Safety Standard kitemark symbol and don't overload extension leads and sockets with electrical decorations
• regularly water real Christmas trees to prevent them drying out and potentially setting alight

Out and about:

• make cars ready for long journeys by checking headlights work and tyres are pumped up
• take care when driving in wintery conditions
• never drive under the influence of alcohol

More festive fire safety advice may be found on the fire service’s web site.